Zircon Xenocrysts Reveal Archean Basement Beneath Northern Qiangtang Block, Tibet

This study presents U–Pb geochronological, trace-element, and Hf isotopic data from zircon xenocrysts found in the Yushu gabbro to investigate the basement beneath the Northern Qiangtang Block in central Tibet. The findings reveal two distinct age populations of zircon cores and rims dating back to the Neoarchean era, indicating significant juvenile crustal growth or mantle-derived magmatism. This research provides new insights into the hidden deep crust beneath the region, which was previously poorly understood due to sedimentary cover and limited exposed basement rocks.

Originally published by gnews